This fully updated third edition of Learning Through Child Observation is a handbook for professionals working in, or students preparing to work in, children's services.
This accessible text examines the value of observation, its use in assessment and the practical aspects and methods of observational study. The authors focus on the importance of fully recognising the child's developmental and emotional state when intervening, and the need to see children 'holistically' and as unique individuals within the wider context of the family and community. This new edition reflects updates to policy and practice and further develops the critical perspective on contemporary thinking about childhood and observational methods. This edition has also expanded its focus to include observation of primary-aged children.
A popular text, it will appeal to students and professionals in all children's services, whether in pre-school, schools, social care, mental health or health settings.

Mary Fawcett is an early years consultant and also an evaluator for 5x5x5=creativity, an arts-based research organisation focusing on the creative values, environments and relationships that support the expression of children's feelings, thoughts and ideas. She was formerly a social work lecturer and Director of Early Childhood Studies at the University of Bristol.
Debbie Watson is Reader in Childhood Studies at the University of Bristol and the Director of the PhD programmes. Debbie is an experienced teacher in schools and in Higher Education. In particular, her interests are in the sociology of childhood, diversities in childhood, research with children and in the wellbeing of children and young people.